The History

Closely positioned near to the picturesque village church and green, it is rumoured that The Olde Forge Inn has monastic connections and is believed to possess an underground tunnel, dating back to the reformation of the 16^th Century, linking it directly to the church!

Lovingly converted into a restaurant only 40 years ago, The Olde Forge has retained all of its historical and architectural charm, including stone walls, heavy wooden doors and high beamed ceilings. It was during this relatively recent conversion that the builders discovered through a hole in the floor there appeared to be a void of open space. They had uncovered a art of history that if it were not for chance could have easily gone un-noticed, a beautiful and hugely impressive 600 year old vault.

There are many rumours that tell the tale of why the vault had been concreted in and of its previous uses. One of the most popular being that it was used for William Pitt the Younger to host his parliamentary meetings, during one of which a serving girl overheard something that was of the utmost secrecy and was hence murdered and the vault was blocked off to destroy any evidence and to hide body. The other main rumour is that the vault was used as an ammunition store for the First World War. Although we will never know the truth behind the rumours the vault remains an architectural gem, and today provides a superb dining area (perfect for parties).